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June 12, 2019

Botswana Decriminalizes Homosexuality
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In Botswana, LGBTQ and human rights advocates celebrated Tuesday as the
country overturned long-standing laws that criminalized same-sex
relations. The historic ruling came after a 21-year-old student brought
a case against the colonial-era law, under which anyone found guilty of
committing homosexual acts could face up to seven years behind bars. A
statement by the advocacy group Lesbians, Gays & Bisexuals of Botswana
said, "Not only does [the decision] provide legal affirmation and
recognition of the rights of LGBTIQ persons, but it allows an important
space for addressing public health issues more efficiently. We can
finally start building a more tolerant society."


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